Yoga is a wholesome exercise that is not just about poses and asanas. A big part of yoga is meditation and ne unique aspect that you may not be aware of is Yog Nidra. It involves relaxing in a comfortable space and the goal is to move to a deeper state of awareness sleep. It may not be exactly meditation, but there are a lot of similarities there. Sleep plays a very important role in our health. When you are unable to sleep, your body works overtime, exhausting itself. Another aspect of it is when people are unable to sleep no matter how hard they try. Yog nidra can be very beneficial for them. The Cleveland Clinic explains yoga nidra and meditation both involve slowing down, but they are distinct practices. It's guided and structured. Regular meditation involves sitting and focusing the mind in a waking state, letting thoughts pass. Meditation can lead to a "theta" state, a step towards the deep "delta" sleep state where healing happens, which is the goal of yoga Nidra while staying conscious. Why Should One Do Yog Nidra Yoga nidra helps your body's automatic systems, like your heartbeat and breathing, work better. These systems have a "stress mode" (fight-or-flight) and a "calm mode" (rest-and-digest). While regular meditation can help balance these, yoga nidra's super deep rest does even more. It wakes up a part of your brain that releases melatonin, a helpful substance that fights damage, boosts your defenses, keeps your blood pressure healthy, and helps you sleep soundly. Tips On How To Do Yog Nidra You can find yoga nidra classes or practice at home with online guides. No special gear is needed – just lie comfortably on a mat or blanket with support. Here are some tips to follow. Practice makes perfect Yoga nidra, while simple, improves with regular practice, especially if you're not used to silencing your thoughts. Consistency helps you access deeper relaxation. Create a calm environment A dark and quiet space minimizes distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the guided meditation. Consider using a sleep mask for deeper darkness. Stay warm and cozy Your body temperature can drop as you deeply relax. A blanket provides comfort and helps you stay warm and undisturbed during the session. Find a comfortable position If lying flat causes discomfort, adapt the practice to a recliner or your bed. The key is to be relaxed and supported so you can focus. Start gently with time Begin with shorter yoga nidra sessions, around 15 to 20 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice. Evening practice for better sleep Practicing yoga nidra before bed can significantly enhance your sleep quality, helping you to fall asleep more easily and sleep more soundly through the night. Be patient with your mind Don't get discouraged if you find it hard to quiet your thoughts initially. It's a skill that develops over time with consistent effort and gentle persistence. The reward is worth the effort By giving yoga nidra a few tries, you'll likely discover its wonderful benefits for rest, recovery, and overall well-being, making it a valuable tool.